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19
The City Council in collaboration with the Society were in consultation
with the London County Council Catering and Restaurant Department
as to the possibility of introducing a system of delivery of meals in
individual containers, which has the merit of securing a greater variety of
meals more suited to individual requirements. This system will be
introduced in 1952.
Some 7,325 meals were delivered by this service during the year.
It cannot be sufficiently emphasized that providing attractive hot
meals at home to these aged and needy people may be the means of
fortifying them and with the attention of the family doctor, keeping them
at home while obviating or postponing admission to hospital or other
institution.
Having regard to the present-day cost of in-patient treatment this
is a sound and beneficial economy.
The Westminster Old People's Welfare Association.
This Association, formed in 1948, continued its activities for the
welfare of aged persons in the City. Assisted by a number of active
voluntary assistants the Association's sphere of activities includes the
conduct of eight Darby and Joan Clubs throughout the City where
recreation and light refreshments are provided. Regular home visiting
of the aged by members of the Association has also brought comfort to
the lonely. Holidays at seaside resorts have been arranged as well as
Christmas parties and summer outings. A foot clinic is held weekly
under the auspices of the Association and treatment at home provided
for those who are home bound, a small charge being made for this treatment.
Increasing use has been made of the mobile library service,
which brings books to their homes and to the clubs. This has been
organized and conducted by the City Council's Librarian, in collaboration
with the Association.
The City Council make an annual grant to the Association and office
accommodation is provided for them in the Public Health Department.
International Certificates of Vaccination and Inoculation.
Arrangements continued during the year for the authentication by
the Medical Officer of Health of International Certificates of Vaccination
and Inoculation completed by medical practitioners in Westminster.
These certificates are requiied by passengers proceeding abroad from
this country, and the purpose of the authentication is to provide proof
to those health authorities abroad who desire it that the signature of
the person issuing the certificate is that of a registered medical practitioner.
Some 1,733 certificates were authenticated during the year.
Medical Inspection of Aliens.
The City Council on behalf of the Minister of Health continued during
the year arrangements for the medical inspection of aliens arriving daily
at Victoria Station by the through sleeping car service from Paris.